the Jesus kind of love.

Throughout middle school, I realized one of many things:

Some people like to date each other for the title.

I could be getting the wrong impression on this, but it seems as if every 2 seconds I hear “oh i like him..” or “yea, we’re dating!” and then another 2 seconds goes by and it's “yea… we broke up.” I myself went through one of those seasons.

This may be something you grow out of as you mature, but as my faith grew, I started not wanting to be in a relationship as badly.

I used to long for a relationship. I just wanted a boyfriend. It was the cool thing in my school. But, again, once I found Jesus, that all stopped.

My mentor once told me that if the person you like doesn’t meet the criteria of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, you don't need them.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 says,

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

You may be thinking, there is not one person out there who perfectly meets these qualities! - yes, that is true.

Reason being- we are never perfect. Not one person is perfect, but Jesus.

That's how it's supposed to be.

When I found Jesus’ never ending, always preserving, and perfect kind of love, I didn't need anything more.

I now stand content with where I am. God always has the greater plan, and He has the perfect person in mind for me and you. Whether that be in 10 years, or 20. It always works out for the good.

So here's my suggestion- wait on God. Seek His love, and then trust Him with the rest. If you haven't found fulfillment from Jesus, you will not find fulfillment in the imperfect love of another person.

Dating for the title will not fulfill you- only a relationship with Jesus will do that. Wait on God to give you the person who preserves, and works to be more like 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 everyday.